judgement day, page-18

WA BUSINESS NEWS

MacTiernan defends Geraldton Port delays
6-February-08 by Jenelle Carter

Geraldton Port users should show more patience as the port brings its latest upgrade, the $45million Berth 5 enhancement, on line, planning and infrastructure minister Alannah MacTiernan said today.

Ms MacTiernan said difficulties were unavoidable as the massive boost to the port's capacity took effect.

Murchison Metals Ltd subsidiary, Crosslands Resources, has reportedly lost hundreds of thousands of dollars, after it was forced to shut down its operations and stand down 80 truck drivers last week because of a bottleneck at the Geraldton Port.

It is believed several exporters experienced severe delays last year, with ships waiting up to 10 days off the coast of Geraldton for a berth.

"This government has invested more than $300million in port, road and rail infrastructure to make sure that Geraldton Port delivers for exporters," she said.

"It is not unreasonable to ask that exporters show some tolerance during commissioning.

"Commissioning new equipment and managing the port's expanded capacity are challenges for both the Geraldton Port Authority staff and the pilots charged with bringing massive ships into their berths.

"These challenges will be resolved over the next few weeks and then Geraldton Port will boast record tonnages with the associated boost for transporters and other local businesses.

"In the meantime, I would ask port users to work with the Port Authority rather than rush off to the media every time they are inconvenienced."

The Berth 5 project was due to be operational last month.